# How Long is Formula Good For? Formula Preparation and Storage Estimated time to read 6 minutes Formula isn’t just an option for babies. Toddler formulas are becoming more and more popular as an option for providing your growing tot with nutrition well past 12 months of age, when powdered infant formula is generally weaned from. Whether you chose to formula feed in the past or are starting it for the first time, following proper preparation and storage guidelines is important to avoid your little one getting sick. This article will take a look at the proper ways to handle and store formula milk and answer some of the common questions that arise when starting formula. ## Why choose a toddler formula? At Serenity Kids, we believe in providing children with high-quality, nutrient-dense options, without all the junk found in many formula products on the market—which is why we created our [Grass Fed A2 Whole Milk Toddler Formula](/content/products/a2-whole-milk-toddler-formula/index.html), intended for tots aged 12 months and up. Our toddler formula is made with organic A2 whole milk, which tends to be easier to digest than A1 milk—most milk sold in grocery stores is A1 milk. Additionally, we source our organic dairy from [regenerative dairy farms](/content/blogs/news/regenerative-agriculture-versus-organic-farming-what-you-need-to-know?_pos=1&_sid=bc27d2441&_ss=r/index.html) that improve the land while allowing the cows to graze and live in more natural habitats. It also contains organic lactose, nutrient-rich fats, DHA and ARA, and prebiotics—all without soy, industrial seed oil, corn, rice syrups, gluten, GMOs, grains, and synthetic folic acid. For more information about why we love toddler formula, check out our article [Why Toddler Formula?](/content/blogs/news/why-toddler-formula?_pos=1&_sid=9dfb78ca3&_ss=r/index.html) ## How long does formula last once it is prepared? Whether you’re preparing baby formula or [toddler formula](/content/blogs/news/toddler-formula-everything-parents-should-know/index.html), it’s important to be aware that once prepared, formula must be consumed within a specified time frame to avoid bacterial growth, which can lead to infection or illness. ### How long does powdered formula last at room temperature? In most cases, a bottle or cup of prepared formula powder can last up to 2 hours if left at room temperature. However, if the formula has been warmed or your little one has put their mouth on the bottle or cup, it’s advised to drink the formula immediately. In this case, whatever is remaining after 1 hour should be discarded to prevent bacteria from forming inside the bottle. ### How long do liquid concentrate and ready-to-drink formulas last at room temperature? Once a bottle or cup has been prepared using a liquid formula, such as concentrated formula or ready-to-feed formula, it’s generally recommended to consume it within 1 hour of preparation. Whatever is remaining after 1 hour of being at room temperature should be disposed of. ## Using formula leftovers On occasion, you may find that your child hasn’t finished all of the formula you prepared for them. Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind when using formula leftovers. ### Can you save leftover formula in the fridge for later? Once your child has drunk out of the bottle or cup, any formula remaining after 1 hour should be thrown out to prevent bacterial growth. ### Can you freeze and save leftover formula for later? [Formula](/content/blogs/news/can-you-freeze-formula-is-it-safe/index.html), whether freshly prepared or leftover, [should not be frozen](https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/infant-formula-safety-dos-and-donts), as the extreme temperatures can degrade the nutrients and cause components to separate. ## Handling and storing formula Here are answers to some commonly asked questions pertaining to [handling and storing](https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/infantandtoddlernutrition/formula-feeding/infant-formula-preparation-and-storage.html) powdered milk formula. ### Can you prepare formula ahead of time? Some parents prefer to prepare one bottle of formula at a time, as needed. Others prefer to prepare the formula ahead of time. Either option is safe as long as the prepared formula is refrigerated and consumed within 24 hours. ### Can you refrigerate powdered formula? Powdered milk formula that has already been mixed and prepared can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours. However, avoid refrigerating unmixed powdered formula as the humidity can cause the powder to clump. ### Can you freeze formula? According to the [Food and Drug Administration (FDA)](https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/infant-formula-safety-dos-and-donts), prepared formula should not be refrigerated as it can cause the components to separate. ### How to prepare formula safely? - Read all labels and directions. Every formula may have slightly different preparation and storage guidelines. - Store milk formula containers in a cool and dry place with the lid tightly closed; avoid extreme temperatures. - Wash your hands before preparing the powdered formula; this will help reduce the risk of contamination. - Plan your formula preparations according to your toddler's needs, discussing with a health professional when in doubt. - When in doubt, throw it out; if you aren’t sure if your child’s formula is still good, discard it. ### How can you heat unused prepared formula? Unused formula can be heated using warm running water or a warm water bath; avoid using a microwave as it can result in uneven heating. ## So what’s the bottom line? No matter the age of your child, formula feeding may be an excellent way to provide some extra nutrition for their growing body. Following safe preparation and storage guidelines can reduce potential risks.